November 23

Introduction

Psalm 99: This psalm concludes the section of psalms we have been reading the past several days that praise God as king and righteous judge. It affirms God as the supreme and holy king.

Today’s Key Verse: Psalm 99:5

Praise the LORD our God; worship before his throne! Holy is he!

Reflect

What has the psalm writer said about God in verses 1 and 2? Verses 3 and 4 end with the words “Holy is he!” and verse 9 concludes with similar words. What does it mean to you that God is holy? Verses 6 and 7 include references to leaders in Israel’s past—Moses, Aaron, and Samuel—and how God spoke to them. Moses led the people out of Egypt (Exodus 12:37—14:31); Aaron was Moses’s brother and he and his sons became Israel’s first priests. (Exodus 28:1); Samuel led the people after the time of the judges until Israel’s first king (1 Samuel 12:1–25). While the Israelites were in the wilderness, God appeared in the form of a cloud (Exodus 19:9, 33:9). In what ways do you experience God’s presence in your life?

Pray

Holy are you, Lord God, king of all creation. I worship you and praise you for your deeds of righteousness and justice. As I listen for your voice, teach me your ways and order my steps this day. In your holy name, I pray. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

Psalm 100: A psalm of thanksgiving